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Topic Review (Newest First)

01-31-2013 05:15 AM

driftwoodhunter

Nice! I love the athleticism in the last pic - used to do the east coast dog show circuit as an artist, so I do love to see a working dog's chiseled form! (a passing interest in schutzhund doesn't hurt either - haha)

01-31-2013 05:07 AM

Nubster

Yeah, I had a mal a few years ago. I didn't get to work him on the road but he was trained. Awesome dog. I gave him to an officer in VA that was able to work him rather than keep him as a pet. Wasn't fair to the dog.

You and all officers earned it! I have a cousin in Ct. that's State Police, and I have two friends here that are prison guards. I couldn't do either job, it's not in me. I admire those that can, and protect us at their own risk. Seems to me it's usually a thankless job.

My last dog was a GSD, and I love that breed. I grew up with Dobes and Rough Collies. I've always wanted a Malinois or a Border Collie, but I haven't had enough energy for those breeds in decades! LOL

01-31-2013 04:52 AM

Nubster

Yeah, there's some argument that they are actually the same breed. When they are brindle, they are a Dutch Shepherd, when they come out fawn colored, they are a Malinois. It's not uncommon to have both in a single litter. In fact, Oz's brother is a Malinois or a fawn Dutch Shepherd. One of the great things about these dogs is that there isn't a lot of really strict breeding "protocols". It's nothing to have a Dutch with other breeds mixed in which is good, it helps keep the bloodlines from getting too stale. They are still relatively new to the K9 scene but they are becoming very popular which unfortunately means that in time the breed will be damaged by poor breeding practices.

As far as attitude...yeah, these dogs have plenty to spare. Oz happens to be on the mellow side and that's what I needed since he is an in the house dog.

And yeah, 10 years on the job and I appreciate the acknowledgement.

01-31-2013 04:31 AM

driftwoodhunter

What a beauty! I've never seen a Dutch Shepherd in person but I've always admired them. Are they as sharp (in attitude, not brains - lol) as Belgian Malinois? Their physical structure reminds me of that breed.

On a side note, I didn't realize you worked in the police force. Kudos to you, too many folks don't appreciate the law until they need their help.

01-31-2013 04:12 AM

Nubster

New pooch

This is Oz. He is a 2.5 year old Dutch Shepherd. I got him today and he will be trained as a full service police K9 in the coming months and subsequently put to work with my department with me as his handler. Best part about it is he is MY dog. Most times a K9 belongs to the department and when the handler leaves the position, they loose the dog. Not in this case. He's mine. All mine.